How to Get Rid of Keratosis Pilaris: A 2-Step Routine

April 27, 2026

By: Lauren Sindel

If you’re seeing tiny red bumps on your upper arms or legs, you’re probably wondering how to get rid of keratosis pilaris (aka, chicken skin).

Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a common skin condition that occurs when there’s a buildup of keratin that plugs hair follicles. This can leave your skin feeling rough and bumpy like sandpaper. 

Keratosis pilaris treatments include an exfoliating product and moisturizer. However, they do need to contain certain active ingredients in order to work efficiently.  

What is Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is a harmless, non-contagious skin condition characterized by small, dry bumps, resembling chicken skin, goose bumps, or strawberry skin. 

Signs and Symptoms: 

On fair skin, KP bumps may look red, white, or skin-colored. On dark skin, they may appear brownish black. Keratosis pilaris bumps usually appear on the upper arms, legs, and cheeks. Other symptoms may include dry skin, itching, and discoloration. 

What Causes Keratosis Pilaris?

Keratosis pilaris is caused by plugged hair follicles. This happens when a protein called keratin, which normally protects the skin, builds up and blocks the opening of hair follicles. As a result, small, rough bumps form on the surface of the skin.

People with a family history of keratosis pilaris are more likely to develop it. It is also frequently associated with dry skin and tends to worsen in colder months when humidity is lower.

In some cases, keratosis pilaris occurs alongside other skin conditions such as eczema or atopic dermatitis. Hormonal changes can also play a role, which is why it often appears during childhood or adolescence. 

Low levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, and essential fatty acids have also been linked to keratosis pilaris flares. 

How to Get Rid of Keratosis Pilaris

To treat keratosis pilaris on arms or legs, start with a 2-step skincare routine that includes an acid-based exfoliating product to remove dead skin cells and a moisturizer to lock in moisture and soften skin. 

Look for ingredients like lactic acid, glycolic acid, squalane, ceramides, and urea. 

• Truly’s Smooth Legend Serum is a dual acid exfoliating serum with lactic and glycolic acids. It penetrates deep to dissolve keratin plugs at the root. Expertly blended with squalane + vitamin E so it won’t dry out or irritate your skin while it’s exfoliating. 

• Truly’s The Smoothing Body Serum strengthens the skin barrier and rapidly smooths skin texture with its nourishing blend of squalane, ceramides, and Tru-Barrier Complex™. 

For best results, use these products consistently in your daily routine. 

A Skincare Routine for Keratosis Pilaris

Clinical trials have found that combining exfoliants like glycolic acid with barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides effectively treats keratosis pilaris by addressing both the keratin plugs and skin barrier impairment. This routine features both. 

Step 1. Exfoliate with Glycolic Acid 

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A clinical study from 2021 concluded that glycolic acid effectively treats keratosis pilaris by clearing follicular keratin blockages and accelerating skin turnover. Truly’s Smooth Legend is unique in that it combines two alpha hydroxy acids - glycolic acid + lactic acid - to dissolve keratin plugs for quick KP relief and smoother, softer skin from the first use. 

Apply a few drops onto clean, dry skin. Massage into the affected area. Use twice daily for 30 days to see visible smoothing.

Step 2. Moisturize with Squalane + Ceramides

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Formulated with ceramides + squalane, Truly’s The Smoothing Body Serum locks in moisture and prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) for a stronger barrier and healthier, more hydrated skin that feels drastically smoother. Dermatologist-tested + fragrance-free. 

Apply a thin layer over affected areas. Use daily for best results. 

Self-Help and Home Remedies 

While they won’t make it go away, these self help steps can improve how your skin looks and prevent kp from getting worse.

• Shower in warm water. Hot water strips the skin of its natural, protective oils which can lead to dryness and bumps. Use warm water instead and limit shower time to 10 minutes or less.
• Avoid harsh scrubs and soaps. These products can irritate your skin and worsen the condition. Stick to gentle skincare products. 
• Use a humidifier. Low humidity can dry out your skin and worsen KP. Try using a home humidifier to add moisture inside your home.
• Wear loose clothing. Tight clothing can cause friction and irritate your skin. Wear breathable, loose clothing instead.
• Invest in a better shave. A poor shave can lead to inflamed bumps. Upgrade your shave with Truly’s premium women’s shaving products.

When to Consider Professional Treatments for Keratosis Pilaris

Keratosis pilaris should resolve on its own over time and can usually be easily managed with the right skincare products. That said, if your keratosis pilaris is severe and won’t go away with topical treatments, your dermatologist may recommend a prescription topical product or laser therapy.

Since IPL laser treatment typically costs around $150-$700 per session and requires 3-6 sessions, it can be an expensive option. We recommend starting with over-the-counter keratosis pilaris skincare products, consistently using them, and giving them time to work (at least six weeks). If you’re seeing no improvement, consult with your dermatologist for help.

Our top product recommendation for keratosis pilaris skin is Truly's Smooth Legend Serum. 93% of consumers said their skin looked smoother & less red within 4 weeks of daily use.

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